There is no shortage of information on baseball instruction within the millions of pages on the internet. Before the web
days, baseball instructional information itself was greatly more valuable than that same information today. Why? Because the
supply has increased dramatically. I can do a search for "baseball instruction" on Google and today I get 440,000 pages that
contain pages that may have the information I'm looking for. The challenge now for the athlete, parent, or coach looking for
training information is not where the information can be found, by what information should be accepted and used. Here are
some general guidelines.

1. Look for credibility. Anyone can post information online. Looks for some playing and coaching credentials. Be careful
however, many prior professional athletes who are no longer playing, turn their attention to coaching. The title of former
professional baseball player holds little weight if that individual cannot relay information correctly. I'm just suggesting
that you look past the title and look more for content. See if the person supplying training has invested some time communicating
the game.

2. Cross-reference content. To avoid being sucked into some sort of baseball philosophy that is on the fringe, always cross
reference your baseball instruction with other sources. Start with those whom you already trust, local coaches, athletes,
etc. Next turn to online forums, article sites such as this one, and other reputable instructors to see if they are teaching
similar skills and techniques.

3. Become a learner. I know quite a number of people who have not played baseball past the high school level who are outstanding
coaches. They attend clinics, read books, listen to other successful coaches, and do all they can to make sure their baseball
information is current.

4. Find an instructor or information that communicates within your style of learning. Many enjoy reading their information;
others hate learning by reading and would much prefer to have information relayed audibly. Many love to learn by watching
videos, or viewing DVD's. Whatever your style and preference, there is a good chance an instructor with the same communication
style is out there. You'll just have to search some.

In short, the best instructors I had throughout my playing career were those who relayed information in a clear and concise
manner. It was easy to understand and the concepts were not complicated. Seek out information that fits your learning style
and you'll love the baseball instruction learning process.

About the Author

Nate Barnett is owner of BMI Baseball http://bmibaseball.com and is based out of Washington State. His expertise is in
the area of hitting, pitching, and mental training. Coach Barnett's passion is working with youth in helping expand their
vision for their baseball future. After finishing a professional career in the Seattle Mariners Organization, Nate pursued
his coaching and motivational training career. His instructional blog is located at http://bmibaseball.com/blog

His new FREE ebook, Toxic Baseball: Are you polluting your game? can be found on the main BMI Baseball website.

Hitting 101, an ebook on complete hitting mechanics will be released by June 1st, 2008. Features include numerous illustrations,
video clips, and a special offer to discuss your hitting questions over live on the phone strategy sessions.